Patrick Butler Remembered

By Dan Harding Jr.

Last Saturday was the third annual Patrick J. Butler Memorial Wrestling Tournament. This year was very special for the Vikings, like years past, because it was a chance for the team to wrestle in Patrick’s honor. Patrick was a very dedicated all-county wrestler who was an inspiration to everyone who puts on the Seaford singlet. It’s only poignant that every singlet has PJB embroidered over their heart, to symbolize that he’s always with us. This wrestling event sponsored by the Friends of Seaford Wrestling was created to raise money for the Patrick Butler Memorial Scholarship, but more importantly, it was a chance for us to celebrate his life.  Father Steven Camp spoke to the crowd during a remembrance. He spoke about how this is not a time to mourn Patrick but a time to celebrate the life he had. I know for me personally this tournament was more of an inspirational day, rather than a sad day. I was filled with a great sense of pride knowing that I was Patrick Butler’s teammate and I’m thankful for the time I spent with him.  It was evident that Patrick touched many lives as numerous alumni and teammates of Butler’s filled the gym.  Motivated and eager to compete, the Vikings wrestled hard and defeated Uniondale, Calhoun and Sewanaka. A congratulation goes out to Blake Fisher for winning the Most Pins in the Least Time Award and to Anthony Chieco for winning the Most Outstanding Wrestler Award.

            As I walked out of the gym knowing this was my last Patrick Butler Tournament as a competitor, I was grateful for the entire Seaford wrestling family.  I look forward to sitting in the stands and watching the next generation of Vikings wrestle in Patrick’s honor.  Patrick Butler always in our hearts.